Simple Spaghetti Squash

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Spaghetti Squash is one of my FAVORITE options for keepin’ it LOW CARB!  Not only is it easy to make, but there are so many ways to serve it.  I love to drizzle mine with oil and top with a yummy sauce.  You can also toss the “spaghetti” with vegetables and spices.  Have fun with it!  Shake up the Spaghettie Squash and create some awesome recipes of your own.

 

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees

 

Preparation:  Please note the way to cut a squash open.  I almost ended up in the ER until I found a trick that actually works.  The squash will be pretty hard.  Even with a sharp knife, you have to be cautious.  I like to warm mine up first until it’s tender enough to insert a knife.  It will still be a little hard, but it’s less dangerous this way.  Warming the squash can easily be done in the oven.  Personally, I am trying to limit my use of the microwave.  Once the flesh is soft enough to cut, CAREFULLY slice the spaghetti squash in half (lengthwise).  I love you all and don’t want to see you injured, so please be careful! 😉

Once separated, drizzle the inside flesh part (both pieces) with oil, salt and pepper.  I personally choose to use olive or grapeseed oil.  There are many options.  It’s your dish, so have fun with it!

Line a baking sheet with foil.  Place the flesh side down on the sheet.  Bake for approximately 45 min-1 hour.  Oven times may vary, so pierce your squash (flesh) three quarters of the way through your baking time.  Remove your squash from the oven once you can insert a fork into the flesh and it feels easy enough to pull apart.  Allow the squash to slightly cool.  It will be HOT!  It can still be warm to the touch, but again, be careful.

Once your squash has slightly cooled, take your fork and gently shred the squash in long strands.  Place your strands in a bowl and toss in your desired ingredients.  Olive oil, red pepper flakes, parsley and lightly sprinkled raw cheese (optional) is a great option.  For my dinner, I kicked it up with a delicious sauce and some fresh basil from my garden.  My side of choice was grilled asparagus.  YUM!  Once you try this, you may be coming back for more!